Begining an unforgettable 7-day journey through the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Yunnan Province. This small group tour takes you from the vibrant city of Kunming to the ancient towns of Dali and Lijiang, before venturing into the mystical realm of Shangri-La. You’ll have the opportunity to explore picturesque scenery, historical sites, and unique ethnic cultures, all while traveling with a like-minded group of adventurers. From the dramatic rice terraces and limestone mountains to the serene lakes and bustling markets, this tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
Introduction
Embark on a memorable 7-day exploration of the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Yunnan Province. This intimate group tour will guide you from the lively city of Kunming to the historic towns of Dali and Lijiang, and ultimately into the enchanting realm of Shangri-La. You’ll have the chance to discover stunning scenery, ancient landmarks, and diverse ethnic cultures, all while accompanied by fellow adventurers who share your passion for exploration. Ranging from spectacular rice terraces and rugged limestone mountains to tranquil lakes and vibrant markets, this journey presents an ideal fusion of natural wonders and cultural experiences.
Highlights:
- Discover Kunming: Begin your adventure in the “Spring City,” known for its temperate climate. Visit the awe-inspiring Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore local markets.
- Experience Dali: Wander through the charming old town of Dali, famous for its ancient architecture and vibrant local culture. Enjoy breathtaking views of Erhai Lake and the Cangshan Mountain range.
- Explore Lijiang: Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Lijiang Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and preserved ancient buildings. Discover the rich Naxi culture and visit the famous Black Dragon Pool.
- Unveil Shangri-La: Journey to the enchanting city of Shangri-La, where Tibetan culture thrives. Visit the impressive Songzanlin Monastery and soak in the tranquil beauty of Pudacuo National Park.
- Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy the diverse landscapes of Yunnan, from mountainous regions and rice terraces to picturesque lakes and valleys, providing perfect photo opportunities.
- Cultural Encounters: Engage with local communities, taste traditional cuisine, and learn about the unique customs and lifestyles of various ethnic groups in Yunnan.
- Stress-Free Travel: Benefit from a well-planned itinerary, comfortable accommodations, and knowledgeable guides, ensuring a hassle-free and enriching travel experience.
Brief Itinerary
- Day 1 Kunming-Dali
- Day 2 Dali
- Day 3 Dali-Lijiang
- Day 4 Lijiang
- Day 5 Lijiang-Tiger Leaping Gorge-Shangri-la
- Day 6 Shangri-la
Google Map
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Kunming-Dali by Bullet Train
Sightseeing and Activities: Stone Forest, Birds and flowers Market, Green Lake
Accommodation: Dali
Meals: None
- Morning Activities
- Start your day by meeting your tour guide and driver in the hotel lobby. Your first stop will be a visit to the vibrant Birds and Flowers Markets, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Afternoon Exploration
- Next, take some time to explore the serene Green Lake, enjoying the natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. Following that, you’ll embark on a drive of about 85 kilometers to the breathtaking Stone Forest.
- Evening Departure
- In the evening, board a bullet train to Dali. Once you arrive, you will meet your local guide and driver, who will assist you with transferring to your hotel for an overnight stay.
- In the evening, board a bullet train to Dali. Once you arrive, you will meet your local guide and driver, who will assist you with transferring to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 2 Dali
Sightseeing and Activities: Dali Old town, Foreiner Street, Ancient City Wall, Three Pagodas in Chongshen Monastery, Xizhou Old town, Heishe Park, Zhoucheng Village
Accommodation: Dali
Meals: Breakfast
- Morning Exploration
- Start your day by exploring the charming Dali Old Town, which includes a stroll down Foreigner Street, a visit to the impressive Ancient City Wall of Dali, and a stop at the Gate Tower. Following this, enjoy a drive to the iconic Three Pagodas in the Chongsheng Monastery.
- Afternoon Adventures
- In the afternoon, transfer to the picturesque Xizhou Old Town. Take a leisurely walk to admire the traditional Bai ethnic architecture. While there, savor the experience of tasting the local three-course tea.
- Afterwards, head to Haishe Park, where you can soak in the stunning views of Erhai Lake. Your adventure will continue with a drive to Zhoucheng Village, where you will visit a local Tie-Dyeing workshop. Finally, you will be transported back to your hotel to unwind after a fulfilling day.
Day 3 Dali-Lijiang
Sightseeing and Activities: Arrive Lijiang, visit Black Dragon Pool, Dongba Culture Musuem, Lijiang Old Town
Accommodation: Baisha Old Town
Meals: Breakfast
- Morning Drive
- Begin your morning with a scenic three-hour drive to Lijiang.
- Once you arrive, your first stop will be the picturesque Black Dragon Pool followed by a visit to the intriguing Dongba Culture Museum.
- Free Exploration
- After exploring, take some time to wander through the enchanting Lijiang Old Town at your leisure.
- Evening Meeting
- At 5:00 PM, regroup with your guide at the iconic Big Waterwheel (大水车) in Lijiang Old Town. From there, you’ll transfer to your hotel located in the charming Baisha Old Town.
Black Dragon Pool in Lijiang
- At 5:00 PM, regroup with your guide at the iconic Big Waterwheel (大水车) in Lijiang Old Town. From there, you’ll transfer to your hotel located in the charming Baisha Old Town.
Day 4 Lijiang
Sightseeing and Activities: Baisha Old Town, Baisha Murals, Yuhu Village, Former Residence of Joseph Rock, Shuhe Old Town
Accommodation: Baisha Old Town
Meals: Breakfast
- Visit to Baisha Old Town
- At 9:00 AM, kick off your day with a visit to the historic Baisha Old Town, where you can also admire the beautiful Baisha Murals.
- Journey to Yuhu
- Next, embark on a drive to Yuhu Village to explore the Former Residence of Joseph Rock, immersing yourself in the captivating history of this area.
- Discovering Shuhe Old Town
- In the afternoon, transfer to Shuhe Old Town for a delightful exploration of its charming streets and local culture.
- In the afternoon, transfer to Shuhe Old Town for a delightful exploration of its charming streets and local culture.
Day 5 Lijiang-Tiger Leaping Gorge-Shangri-la
Sightseeing and Activities: First Bend off Yangtze River, Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge, Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge, Dukezong Ancient Town, GUishan Hill
Accommodation: Shangri-La
Meals: Breakfast
- Scenic Drive
- In the morning, set off on a drive to Qiaotou Town. En route, take a moment to admire the stunning view of the First Bend of the Yangtze River from a distance.
- Quick Stop at Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge
- Continue your journey toward Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge, where you’ll pause for five minutes to capture some photographs of the breathtaking landscape.
- Hiking Adventure
- Next, proceed to the Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge to embark on a three-hour hike, starting from a location known as “14km” and making your way to Tina’s Guesthouse.
- Drive to Shangri-La
- At 3:30 PM, begin your drive to Shangri-La.
- Upon your arrival, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Dukezong Ancient Town.
- Guishan Hill Viewpoint
- Then, walk up to the top of Guishan Hill to marvel at the Grand Prayer Wheel and take in a panoramic view of Shangri-La city. After your explorations, you’ll transfer to your hotel for the night.
- Then, walk up to the top of Guishan Hill to marvel at the Grand Prayer Wheel and take in a panoramic view of Shangri-La city. After your explorations, you’ll transfer to your hotel for the night.
Day 6 Shangri-la
Sightseeing and Activities: Songzanlin Monastery, Napahai Lake
Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast
- Visit to Songzanlin Monastery
- You will pick up from your hotel and embark on a drive to explore the magnificent Songzanlin Monastery.
- Local Tibetan Village Experience
- Afterward, take the opportunity to visit a nearby Tibetan village and interact with a local family, gaining insight into their culture and way of life.
- Scenic Visit to Napahai Lake
- In the afternoon, we will transfer to Napahai Lake for a serene experience in nature.
- Drop-Off at Moonshine Square
- As the day winds down, we will drive you back to downtown Shangri-La, where we will drop you off at Moonshine Square (月光广场).
- Tour ends.
- Please note: Small deviations in the tour program are sometimes necessary, depending on weather, road conditions, flight schedules and room availability.
Recommended Hotels
| Destination | 4 Star | 3 Star |
| Kunming | Weilong Hotel | Long Teng Hotel |
| Dali | Landscape Hotel / E-outfitting Boutique Hotel | Taiheju Inn / Shenghui Hotel |
| Lijiang | Wangfu Hotel / Hexi Hotel | Baisha Holiday Resort / Louwailou Hotel |
| Shangri-La | Maoyuan Hotel / Shangri-La Old Town Hotel | Holy Melody Hotel / Bodhi Boutique Inn |
Price Details for Shoulder Season
| Travel Date | January to 14th, July; 26th, August-31st, December (Except Chinese Spring Festival and National Day) |
| Group Size | 2 – 12 pax |
| Price for Per Person | USD 888/CNY 5,860(4 Star) USD 830/CNY 5,480 (3 Star) |
| Single Room Supplement | USD 153/CNY 1,010(4 Star) USD 96/ CNY 630(3 Star) |
Price Details for Tourism Season
| Travel Date | 15th, July to 25th, August |
| Group Size | 2 pax and up |
| Price for Per Person | USD 950/CNY 6,270(4 Star) USD 905/CNY 5,970 (3 Star) |
| Single Room Supplement | USD 170/CNY 1,120(4 Star) USD 125/CNY 820 (3 Star) |
Cancellation Policy
| Date of Cancellation | Charge Incurred( Based on the total amount) |
| more than 1 month before departure | 0 |
| 11-30 days before departure | 5% |
| 5-10 days before departure | 20% |
| 3-4 days before departure | 60% |
| within 2 days before departure | 100% |
Service Included:
- Six nights accommodation with breakfast in economy hotels;
- Sharing-vehicle with air conditioners;
- Excellent English-speaking guide;
- Entrance tickets mentioned in the itinerary;
- Bullet train ticket from Kunming to Dali (2nd-class ticket);
- Two bottles of water each day each person.
Service Excluded:
- Lunches and dinners;
- International train tickets/flight tickets;
- Personal travel accident insurance;
- Any optional programs/activities;
- Chinese visa fees;
- Personal consumption;
- Any picking-up and dropping of service between hotel and airport;
- Single room supplement;
- Tips (USD 5-10/day/person to guide; USD 5-10/day/person to driver).
For the price will be different in different seasons. Please contact us for more details.
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Tips Before Travel
Bring copies of your passport
Don't assume you're restricted to the main hubs of Beijing and Shanghai, our tours can start from any city.
Register with your embassy
For your safety, please register with the Embassy.
Always have local cash
Exchange some local currency for your trip
Our Team
Fenggu Yingshan Tea House and Tea Culture Learning Lijiang
Charlie Lee-General Manager of Yaso Travel and Xilinshan Tea Company
Leon Liu-Network Engineer of Trans Asia Discovery
Vincent Zhao-French Market and the Founder of VoyagesYunnan.com
Gary Elliot-Shareholder of Trans Asia Discovery
Michael Huang-Excellent French and English-speaking Tour Guide in Yunnan
Stephane-Volunteer of Yaso Travel
David Yao-Lijiang Tour Operator of Yunnan Exploration
Cindy Cao-Yunnan Tour Operator
Xilinshan Tea House (Kunming, Yunnan)
Rachel Nan-China Tour Operator
Lydia Li-The Founder of Yunnan Exploration
Anna Chen-Yunnan Tour Operator
Kelly Yu-Yunnan Travel Consultant
Cloudy Fu-Website Editor of Yunnan Exploration
Cuiyuan Yang
Skye Zhang-website editor of Yunnan Exploration
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